4 Questions for Johanne Pickens from Scotland

What can you tell us about yourself?

I'm Johanne, a 38 year old Para equestrian dressage rider. I have mobility problems due to being left with nerve damage to my legs after major spinal surgery.
Despite this, I'm still a very active person. I look after, ride and compete my 2 horses, and also enjoy going camping and hill walking with my partner and our dog, Ness.
I usually walk with a stick, and I often found it awkward when it came to crossing muddy, uneven terrain.
So, I went on the hunt for something to help make life a bit easier for me. I needed something that would be practical, easy to use, and that could cope with the rough, uneven ground of Scottish hills, as well as fields and stable yards etc - that's when I found the Trionic Veloped!

What made you chose the Veloped Trek 14er?

I choose the Veloped Trek 14er as it is most suited to my requirements, and the larger wheels makes it easier to manoeuvre over difficult terrain. It actually surpasses all my expectations! Not only is it easy to use, it has a very handy basket, 2 detachable bags, and it looks a lot more modern than your run of the mill rollators! My partner is so impressed with it, he wants to take it with him next time he goes fishing! Its just so versatile!

What have you been able to do with your Veloped Trek 14er that you initially did not think you could do?

Having the Veloped really has opened new doors for me. No longer do I have to struggle when out walking, I can stop and take a rest whenever I like, by just sliding the seat forward, and the Veloped does the carrying so I don't have to! I can use it to move heavy haynets at the barn, even carry heavy saddles and feed buckets back and forth, it's made my life that bit easier - really wish I'd gotten one sooner!

What’s next for you and your Veloped, have you anything special planned?

I'm competing in the RDA (Riding for the Disabled Association) Scottish Championships in October, and my Veloped will be coming with me! It'll mean I can keep all my gear close to hand, and save trips back and forth to the lorry.
I also hope to qualify for the RDA National Championships in Hartpury again next year, where I know the Veloped will be indispensable!